Reduce non-essential electricity use this afternoon and evening
Published on 14 December 2023
The NSW Government is encouraging businesses, households and government agencies to temporarily reduce non-essential use of electricity late this afternoon and early this evening, when hot temperatures will increase demand for power.
With temperatures forecast to reach 40 degrees today in parts of NSW including Sydney, the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) is forecasting that electricity supply reserves will be under pressure.
Power use in NSW is expected to peak between 5pm and 9pm.
AEMO has measures in place to maintain reliable electricity supply. As a precaution, we are encouraging the community to reduce energy use between 5pm and 9pm, where it’s possible and safe to do so. For example:
- If using air-conditioning, raise the set point temperature to between 24 and 26 degrees. Each degree reduces energy use by around 10%.
- Reduce use of non-essential appliances. Use dishwashers, washing machines and dryers late at night or wait until the morning.
- Temporarily turn off swimming pool pumps.
Reducing electricity use must not compromise health. Nobody should turn off an appliance they need and community members should use air-conditioning if necessary.
If you suffer from a medical condition and could be affected by the heat visit
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/beattheheat for tips on how to keep safe.
The NSW Government is also taking steps to reduce demand. Our agencies will reduce air conditioning where safe and feasible, switch off non-essential lights and turn off equipment when not in use.
Thank you for sharing this important information with your employees, members and networks.